In the Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup, New Zealand scripted history as the Sophie Devine-led side clinched their maiden Women’s T20 World Cup title after beating South Africa by 32 runs at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai last night.
Chasing a target of 159 runs set by New Zealand, South Africa made 126 runs for the loss of nine wickets in the stipulated twenty overs. For South Africa, skipper Laura Wolvaardt with 33 was the highest scorer. For New Zealand, Rosemary Mair and Amelia Kerr scalped three wickets while Eden Carson, Fran Jonas and Brooke Halliday took a wicket each.
Earlier, South
African women won the toss and opted to bowl. Batting first, New Zealand made 158 for five in the stipulated twenty overs. For New Zealand, Amelia Kerr scored the highest 43 runs while Brooke Halliday scored 38 runs and Suzie Bates made 32 runs. Amelia Kerr was declared Player of the Series and Player of the Match.
For South Africa, Nonkululeko Mlaba scalped two wickets while Ayabonga Khaka, Chloe Tryon and Nadine de Klerk took a wicket each. This was the Kiwis’ third-ever final of the showpiece event and after two successful attempts, they finally have their hand on the coveted trophy.